The Chicago Cubs are still looking to fill some spots in their everyday lineup. What could it look like on Opening Day? Defensive whiz Matt Chapman could solidify the hot corner and perhaps provide a 30-home run bat in the middle of the lineup. They even could make a play to sign another slugger, but to play first base.
With pitchers and catchers reporting in less than a month, there are still many uncertainties for the Cubs. Encouraging signs have begun with the signing of Japanese star lefty Shota Imanaga as a starting pitcher. The Cubs also traded with the Los Angeles Dodgers last week for bullpen help and a possible Opening Day third baseman. However, there is still work to be done in the next month for Spring Training opens. Although they have made strides in filling out a starting rotation, some questions remain on what the starting lineup will look like on March 28 in Texas.
Cubs Opening Day Roster Prediction
Center Field Possibilities
All indications from Clark and Addison are that the team is not done signing free agents. There still needs to be some signings both at first base and center field. Despite some potential, it appears unlikely that the Cubs will go into the season with only rookies to fill the outfield position. Re-signing Cody Bellinger would obviously fill this void but given the young talent, will the Cubs make a long-term commitment at this position? Pete Crow-Armstrong and Alexander Canario have shown promise, but a veteran “bridge” player should be on their radar. If the Cubs miss out on Bellinger, look for a veteran such as Michael A. Taylor or Aaron Hicks to be signed to a one-year, incentive laden deal.
First Base Options
At first base, the Cubs still appear to be the frontrunner to sign former Phillies star Rhys Hoskins. Although not an upgrade from Bellinger, Hoskins could come in at a reasonable price on a “prove-it” deal. His projection for this year puts him over an .800 OPS so there is value in his inclusion. If neither Bellinger nor Hoskins end up on the roster, could former Cincinnati Red Joey Votto or former Red Sox J.D. Martinez be an option? The organization is still hoping Matt Mervis can prove he is worthy to eventually take over the everyday first base role. However, it is a stretch to think he can fill this role on Opening Day.
What Will the Opening Day Lineup Look Like?
Given all of these factors, there is a chance that Chicago will still sign a few free agents but ultimately miss out on Bellinger reunion. If they can show signs of success during the season, a trade deadline deal could bring in some pop. However, Opening Day may not include some of the thunder in the lineup fans are hoping for. Therefore, my prediction for their lineup in Texas on March 28 would be the following:
- Nico Hoerner,2B
- Ian Happ, LF
- Rhys Hoskins, 1B
- J.D. Martinez, DH
- Dansby Swanson, SS
- Michael Busch, 3B
- Seiya Suzuki, RF
- Miguel Amaya, C
- Pete Crow-Armstrong, CF
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